HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ARCHITECTUREWEEK

All of us at ArchitectureWeek wish you a joyful Solstice, Ramadan, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza, and a Happy New Year for 2004. In observance of year-end holidays, ArchitectureWeek No. 175 is an extended issue. ArchitectureWeek No. 176, including the articles previewed here, will be released on January 7, 2004.

HIGH MUSEUM SHEDS NEW LIGHT

The High Museum of Art by architect Richard Meier, opened in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia. At the time, Meier biographer Darlene Levy wrote: "Natural light is prevalent and adjustable to meet specific exhibit needs." Too adjustable, perhaps. Over the next 20 years, skylights and clerestories were blacked out and walls were moved, changing much of the building's original character. Now Atlanta firm Lord, Aeck & Sargent has undone the damage in a renovation that prompted Meier to declare: "It's as if it has come alive again." (Photo courtesy of the High Museum of Art.)

NEW SPACES IN OLD PLACES

In the lower west side of Manhattan, some recent remodels have breathed new life into old but steadfast structures. The renovations are based on the idea that just because an old building is worth keeping, doesn't mean that it has to retain its function and appearance exactly as in the past. Thanks to the vision of groundbreaking architects and their clients, several buildings have been successfully brought up to modern-day architectural and economic viability. New York architect Peter Gaito Jr. will show us four examples, including the Vitra Showroom by architect Lindy Roy (photo by Richard Barnes).